East Midlands Railway (EMR), which is operated by Transport UK, has introduced new station guides designed to make information clearer and more accessible for passengers of all abilities.
EMR is the first official Symbol-Friendly operator in the UK and worked with visual communication experts, Widgit Software, to create the guides.
The guides use simple language alongside clear, recognisable Widgit Symbols to support understanding and confidence when travelling.
With Widgit, each symbol represents a word or concept that can be put together to create a visual sign or sentence, allowing individuals to navigate their way around a station more easily or ask for help.
Autistic people, individuals with additional needs, or anyone with a communication challenge who may become anxious when travelling can use the guides in advance to understand what to expect from their journey.
Each guide provides key information about EMR stations, including entrances and exits, ticket facilities, platforms, step-free access, and where customers can get help from staff. The guides are available online and can be viewed or downloaded in advance of travel.
Widgit, a pioneer in symbol-based communication, has developed the guides to empower individuals to navigate environments more independently. Its solutions are widely used by educators, therapists, and caregivers to support inclusive communication and understanding.
Philippa Cresswell, customer experience director at East Midlands Railway, said: “We want rail travel to be accessible and welcoming for everyone.
“These new Symbol-Friendly Station Guides are a practical step forward, helping customers better understand our stations and travel with greater confidence.”
Lisa Pinkerton, head of education at Widgit, said: “East Midlands Railway is the first official Symbol-Friendly operator in the UK, joining football stadiums, hospitals and museums to make everyday life more accessible to people who struggle with reading signs and finding their way around new and busy places. Now, more people with additional needs can travel around the country independently and confidently.”
The full range of Symbol-Friendly Station Guides is now available on the EMR website.
Image credit: EMR